March marks the start of spring with warming days and clearer skies, particularly later in the month. This is a good time for trekking at lower elevations before the monsoon; rhododendrons begin to flower. Cultural festivals often attract regional visitors.
SeasonHigh SeasonTemperature 0 to 15°C (32 to 59°F)Crowds HighPrices High
High seasonShoulderLow season
Weather by City in March
CityLow / highRain
Thimphu
Cool
4°17° 30 mm
Phuntsholing
Mild
18°29° 69 mm
Punakha
Cool
9°23° 44 mm
Pemagatsel
Cool
12°22° 68 mm
Paro
Cool
5°18° 38 mm
Sarpang
Mild
17°28° 61 mm
Gelephu
Mild
18°29° 69 mm
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Temperature map
-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°
Average temperature across Bhutan in March.
Where to Go in Bhutan in March
Southern Plains
Samtse, Sarpang, Phuentsholing
Late March in the plains feels distinctly warmer and muggy, especially in Sarpang where palms and rice paddies are turning green; temperatures often rise into the high 20s°C. Pre-monsoon showers can begin by month’s end, and you may notice increasing insect buzz at dusk - mosquito repellent becomes useful. If you’re passing through to Punakha or further north for Paro Tshechu, the southern crossing towns are convenient staging points with plenty of taxis and guesthouses.
Western Valleys
Paro, Thimphu, Haa
Spring’s first warmth arrives in March: valleys flush with early rhododendron buds and Paro Tshechu commonly falls in this month, filling monasteries with locals in festival dress. Daytime temperatures climb into the low teens to high teens °C and trekking approaches become firmer and drier; alpine wildflowers begin to appear on trails to Tiger’s Nest. Travelers should bring a mix of light and warm layers-sunny afternoons are pleasant but mornings remain sharp.
Central Highlands
Punakha, Wangdue, Trongsa, Bumthang
March usually ushers in blossoming rhododendrons and apricot blooms across Bumthang’s floor and valley slopes-daytime temperatures climb into the mid-teens °C and trekking routes regain their spring grip. Punakha’s lower elevation feels almost balmy by afternoon, perfect for riverside walks to the suspension bridge. Travelers find cultural visits popular now, with festival season peaking; pack layers because mornings and evenings remain brisk.
Eastern Hills
Trashigang, Mongar, Trashiyangtse
March brings an early thaw and blossom-time in many eastern valleys; daytime warmth increases and the landscape begins to green, ideal for scenic drives along the Kuri Chhu in Bumthang-adjacent zones. Monsoon clouds are still far off, so the roads are good for extended travel and photography. Pack lightweight layers for daytime warmth and a warm fleece for chilly nights in guesthouses.
High Himalaya / Northern Alpine Zone
Gasa, Laya, Lunana, high passes
March brings slow thawing on lower alpine heights, but high passes still hold deep snow and blizzards are possible; daytime temperatures at base-camp altitudes can be around 0-5°C while nights are well below freezing. Local guides begin assessing snow-melt conditions for spring treks; this is when logistics start to ramp up for expeditions. Acclimatization in Gasa or Layaps settlements is safer in lower-elevation lodges rather than pushing high routes early.
Events & Festivals in March
Paro Tsechu (spring, date varies)
One of Bhutan's major religious festivals featuring masked dances and community gatherings; the exact date varies by the lunar calendar.
Planning a trip to Bhutan?
See how March compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.
